MEMOIRS OF MRS. COGHLAN, (DAUGHTER OF THE LATE MAJOR MONCRIEFFE,) WRITTEN BY HERSELF, AND DEDICATED TO THE BRITISH NATION; BEING INTERSPERSED WITH ANECDOTES OF THE LATE AMERICAN AND PRESENT FRENCH WAR; WITH REMARKS, MORAL AND POLITICAL.
New York: Swords, 1795. xix, [1 blank], 25-184 pp. Some spotting and soiling. Late 19th-century half morocco (some rubbing). Good+
The first American edition of a "Narrative of a lady famous for her affair with Colonel Burr in the Revolution." Howes. This copy includes the frequently "suppressed" pages iii-vi of the Preface. "The New York edition contained a preface and some remarks from a publication called 'The Female Jockey Club.' This edition is rare, and most of the copies are without the preface and remarks." Tompkins.
Finding herself alone behind Rebel lines in 1776 in New York City, Margaret Moncrieffe Coghlan sought protection among the Continental Army's most senior officers, where she entered into a relationship with Aaron Burr. On her return to the British Army lines, her father, Major Moncrieffe, forced the 14-year-old to marry British Lieutenant John Coghlan. She despised him, and they soon separated. She suffered financial, legal and social problems throughout her life. Her memoir, in which she shares her political opinions, provides a glimpse into the plight of 18-th century women.
Howes C543. Tompkins [Burr] 30. Evans 28442. 30 Decker 85. Item #38935
Price: $1,000.00